Memorial Day is the unofficial first day of summer! Let the celebrations begin! But remember, this too is a solemn day. Yes, it deserves to be filled with love, laughter, and smiles. We must, however, recognize and honor those who gave us this freedom, who sacrificed it all, who are not here so that we may live such amazing lives.
Below are my recommendations for Memorial Day traditions with your family! Please join me in honoring our fallen brave men and women.
#1 Attend A Memorial Day Service or Parade
Attending our local Memorial Day service is hands down one of my most cherished childhood memories!
Memorial Day services are held all across America at local National Cemeteries. If you do not live near a National Cemetery, reach out to your local cemetery and ask about their Memorial Day Service!
My small little town in Northeastern Colorado has one of the BEST Memorial Day Services I have EVER attended! Linn Grove Cemetery continually works hard to honor our brave men and women in a beautiful and solemn service filled with love and gratitude.
In towns all across America, there are many parades commemorating our fallen heroes. Additionally, each year there is a grand parade in Washington D.C. at 2:00 pm (EST). The Washington D.C. parade is broadcasted live! Tune in!
#2 Join in the National Moment of Remembrance
All across America at 3:00 pm (local time), join the moment of silence to honor of our fallen heroes. Whether you are in a crowd or by yourself, I encourage you to join your fellow Americans in a Moment of Remembrance.
At 3:00 pm, hundreds of thousands of baseball fans pause to honor our heroes. Hundreds of Amtrack trains blast their horns in honor. NASCAR also pauses in silence. Even NASA solemnly reflects upon this day.
Many Americans do not realize that this is a federal law passed in 1997. President Clinton and the Republican Congress passed a National Moment of Remembrance to remind Americans to silently reflect upon the sacrifice and honor the American servicemen and women.
#3 Read the World Famous Memorial Poem
On May 3, 1915, Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae pinned this famous war poem after presiding over the funeral of his dear friend. It remains today one of the most read memorial poems in the world!
#4 Support Your Local VFW Buddy Poppy program!
Each year, hundreds of hospitalized and disabled veterans gather to create the poppy flowers and poppy wreaths that decorate the graves of our fallen heroes. Learn more about how you and your family can help the VFW Buddy Poppy program!
#5 Teach your Children Memorial Day Flag Etiquette
On Memorial Day, the American flag is quickly raised to the top then solemnly lowered to half-staff. At half-staff, we honor the brave men and women who have lost their lives in the fight for freedom. Promptly at noon, the American flag is raised once more. This time, it is raised by those left behind with the resolve to continue the fight for freedom.
Flag Etiquette on Memorial Day:
- Quickly raise the Flag to the top
- Then solemnly lower the flag half-staff.
- At noon, raise the flag to the top again.
Other Flag Etiquette Tips:
- Flags fly from sunrise to sunset.
- Illuminate the flag all night to fly all night.
- Be careful not to let the flag touch the ground.
- While the flag is being raised, those in uniform shall render the military salute. Veterans and active-duty servicemen not in uniform may still render the military salute.
- Otherwise, stand at attention, remove all hats, and place your right hand over your heart.
- To respectfully retire old and worn flags, contact your local Boy Scouts.
#6 Read and Learn about Memorial Day together!
Some of my greatest childhood memories include me and my dad cuddled up while reading a book! Here are two wonderful books to help children understand the honor given to brave Americans.
- The Wall
- America’s White Table
#7 Join the Moment of Prayer
Find a quiet corner or kneel beside a hero’s grave and simply pray.
On May 11, 1950, Congress passed a resolution requesting the president to issue a proclamation each year. The proclamation called for “designating a period of time on Memorial Day during which the people may unite in prayer for a permanent peace.” (36 U.S.C. 116)
#8 Celebrate with a Patriotic Summer Dish!
Enjoy some easy and delicious summer treats the whole family will enjoy! Summer weather has hopefully arrived, and it’s time to enjoy the sun! Enjoy a simple Red, White, and Blue Fruit Salad! So simple! Just add bananas, strawberries, and blueberries. Toss with sugar and enjoy with whipped cream!
#9 Visit your State Veterans Nursing Home!
Spend some time listening to stories and encouraging our veterans while visiting your local State Veterans Nursing Homes. These incredible men have countless stories of their time in the military, and most are yearning for an opportunity to simply share their wisdom with someone else. Learn more about how you can volunteer!
#10 Share Your Story on Memorial Day!
I encourage you to share your stories of brave loved ones! What branch did they serve in? What was their primary job (MOS)? Tell your friends and family about the brave men and women who served this nation.
* Learn about the History of the Memorial Day *
Discover the history behind Memorial Day and the man that marked this day for future generations. Learn more by clicking here!
I hope you enjoyed our post! Please share and encourage others on this important Memorial Day!
Thanks for reading! Feel free to comment below, and share your own family traditions! If you’d like to know more about the history of Memorial Day, click here!